Yakov's Theatre — Attraction in Branson

I walked away from Yakov’s show with a mix of conflicting ideas and emotions about what I had just experienced. Let me start by saying that I highly recommend seeing it—Yakov is both interesting and funny, making the show worth watching. What left me questioning the experience was the stark contrast between different aspects of his performance.

On one hand, there’s the comedy. Some of it is recycled, some is new, but it’s all clever, relatable, and enjoyable. Yakov presents himself as a dynamic performer who deeply understands his audience’s emotions, sharing heartfelt stories that pull you into his perspective. Half the time, he feels genuinely introspective, a performer who connects on a profound level.

But then there’s the other side. He’s also shamelessly self-promoting, running what feels like live infomercials, with saleswomen moving through the audience, selling books, posters, and DVDs—all signed, of course, if you’d like. The most jarring aspect is how quickly he switches between heartfelt stories, jokes, and these blatant cash grabs. The rapidity of those shifts left me stunned.

One constant throughout the show is Yakov’s emphasis on his fame, legitimacy, and patriotism. He starts with a long video introduction that highlights his 9/11 mural, and the walls are filled with photos of him alongside notable figures. Stories about his relationships with Ronald Reagan and other politicians and actors are frequent, reinforcing the sense of his legendary status.

It’s clear that Yakov has built a very successful business around this persona, likely earning him a tidy profit. Despite the blatant commercialism, I chose to hold onto his final message—well, almost final. He encouraged the audience to stay positive and look for the good in life and the human condition in the U.S., delivering a heartfelt analysis of the fractured post-capitalist, two-party America we know today. And then, of course, he followed that with a request for good Yelp and TripAdvisor reviews.

For me, his closing message was inspiring, and that’s what I’ll choose to take away, despite the somewhat contradictory elements...

Yakov Branson needs you! The show is far more than just a comedian telling jokes. Yakov is a gifted comedian but also a story teller with a vital message. We would have loved to see him again but we were disappointed, then concerned to find he is only in Branson for seven weeks in 2022. The hologram show (Buddy Holly, Roy Orbison) that was supposed to be there wasn’t and the theater looks like it is empty and needs some TLC.

I hope and pray Yakov is ok, there aren’t many dates on his website and no information concerning the hologram show or anything else on the site or at the theater.

Yakov is the last “Star” in Branson. There are local stars but he’s it since the passing of Mickey Gilley (R.I.P.) Not only has Jim Stafford left but his theater has been torn down. Shoji Tabuchi is a Branson star but his theater sits empty while he does a more “intimate” show at the IMAX. I know Yakov has a heart for Branson, he has shared his vision for a development here. I hope he will use his name and influence to help stop the trend of chain stores, chain restaurants and attractions that have nothing to do with Branson, The Ozarks or the history of the region from not only taking over but actually changing the heart of Branson, the reason it grew in the...

We went to see Yakov Smirnoff's show last night. SO glad we did!! We REALLY enjoyed his performance!!! He is not just a very funny comedian, but his love for the USA was awe inspiring! Every American needs to see this show! The show began with the singing of the National Anthem, and near the end, the Pledge of Allegiance. He was born and raised in Socialist Russia, and migrated to the US, with his parents, when he was 26. He talked about his pride in becoming an American citizen. The whole 2 hours was a mixture of heart warming, and hilarious stories about his love for this country. Really made my heart swell, to be an American! He is also a VERY talented artist! Most of his paintings are of a patriotic nature. Most have flags in them. There are paintings for sale in a gallery inside his theater. A funny touch he has added is a small figurine of him, attached to the painting, signing the painting with a paint brush. He stayed for probably an hour, in the lobby after the show, signing autographs and taking photos. He also would chat with anyone who wanted to talk with him. Very nice guy! If you haven't seen his show, be sure to go see it the next time you...